Erb's palsy

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Erb's Palsy

Erb's palsy (pronounced: /ɜːrbz ˈpɔːlzi/), also known as Erb-Duchenne palsy, is a form of brachial plexus palsy that affects the nerves in the upper arm. The condition is named after Wilhelm Heinrich Erb, the German neurologist who first described it.

Etymology

The term "Erb's palsy" is derived from the name of the German neurologist Wilhelm Heinrich Erb, who first described the condition. The word "palsy" comes from the Old French paralisie, meaning "paralysis", which in turn is derived from the Latin paralysis, meaning "to loosen".

Definition

Erb's palsy is a condition characterized by weakness or paralysis of the arm caused by damage to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that control movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. This damage can occur during childbirth, particularly in cases of shoulder dystocia, or as a result of trauma.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Erb's palsy can vary depending on the severity of the nerve damage. They may include:

  • Weakness in one arm
  • Loss of feeling in the arm
  • Partial or total paralysis of the arm
  • Decreased grip strength in the hand of the affected arm

Treatment

Treatment for Erb's palsy may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and in some cases, surgery. The goal of treatment is to restore as much function as possible in the affected arm.

Related Terms

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